- Who
- Thanga Darlong
- What
- 98:319 year(s):day(s)
- Where
- India ()
- When
Indian folk musician Thanga Darlong (b. 20 July 1920) was 98 years 319 days old when he was presented with the Padma Shri civilian award on 4 June 2019. Born at Muruai village, in the north-eastern state of Tripura, Darlong is celebrated as the last tribal musician to play the rosem, a flute-like instrument made from wood, bamboo and a traditional water pot used by Tripura’s Darlong tribe. He has been described as an “exceptional musical genius” who has made “exemplary efforts [in] nurturing the indigenous culture of [the] north-east [of India]”. The prestigious award was conferred at a ceremony in Kailashahar, Tripura, together with a prize of 1.5 lakh rupees (£1,600; $2,113).
Darlong has now received two of India’s highest honours, in 2014 and 2019 respectively: the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (from India’s National Academy of Music, Dance & Drama) and the Padma Shri civilian award, to honour his “distinguished contribution” to his craft. At 102 years 146 days old (as of 13 December 2022), Darlong still plays the rosem, keeping the tradition alive by performing at community gatherings and festivals or just for family and friends at home.